Scientist, Quantum Applications

Job Description

Job Title: Senior Scientist, Quantum Applications. Location: Remote, US

Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and optimize novel quantum algorithms, applications, and end-to-end workflows in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning.
• Collaborate with customers and partners to define and solve problems of real-world interest using IonQ trapped-ion quantum computers.
• Discover innovative solutions, rigorously benchmark performance, and publish results in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
• Support initiatives that deliver new scientific discoveries and innovation, helping shape team culture and long-term impact.

Qualifications:

• 6+ years of professional experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in Python and/or C++, and experience with Qiskit or similar quantum SDKs.
• Hands-on experience developing or optimizing quantum algorithms in areas such as computational chemistry, optimization, and machine learning.
• Strong foundation in key quantum computing concepts and ability to articulate technical ideas to diverse audiences;
• Proven record of delivering innovative quantum solutions via manuscripts, talks, open-source repositories, patents, or publications.
• Strong collaboration skills and experience working in teams to solve real-world problems.

Preferred:

• Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics, or a closely related field.
• Experience contributing to customer-facing or partner-facing technical engagements.
• Familiarity with variational quantum algorithms and hybrid quantum-classical workloads (CPUs, GPUs, QPUs);
• Experience developing hybrid quantum algorithms for NISQ-era systems and early fault-tolerant quantum computers.
• Demonstrated skill in quantum algorithm resource estimation, performance benchmarking, and scaling analysis.
• Success in working with customers to define and deliver solutions.

Benefits and Compensation:

• Base salary range: $145,920 – $191,047.
• Total compensation includes base, bonus, and equity;
• Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO, paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, home internet stipend, and pet insurance.
• Compensation varies based on location, knowledge, skills, and experience.

Other Information:

• Travel: ~10% domestic and international for customer engagements and conferences.
• IonQ HQ: College Park, Maryland; additional offices in Bothell, WA; Toronto, Canada; Basel, Switzerland.
• Employment contingent on U.S. export control compliance; U.S. Person status may be required;
• IonQ promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion in hiring and workplace culture.